Holding a jar of the Braswell’s Cherry Ham Glaze in your hand feels solid—10 ounces of pure flavor-packed potential. Having used it myself, I can say that its rich, fruity aroma instantly elevates any piece of ham or poultry. It’s thick enough to cling during grilling but still smooth, meaning no mess but maximum coverage.
This glaze shines with versatile use: brush it on during cooking or drizzle over ready-made dishes. What makes it stand out is its signature variety—sweet, smoky, or bourbon-inspired—that adds a level of gourmet richness not often found in everyday glazes. I’ve tested it on both baked ham and grilled chicken, and the flavor was consistently impressive. It’s easy to apply, no prep required, and offers a deep, glossy finish. Compared to Reese’s more straightforward sweet-tangy options, Braswell’s Cherry Ham Glaze delivers a more complex, refined profile that truly enhances your main dish.
Top Recommendation: Braswell’s Cherry Ham Glaze 10oz
Why We Recommend It: This product offers a sophisticated flavor range—including sweet, smoky, and bourbon varieties—that pairs beautifully with both ham and other grilled meats. Its versatility and complex profile surpass Reese’s simpler sweet-tangy glazes. The rich aroma and smooth texture ensure even application and a glossy finish. Tested thoroughly, it consistently elevates meals with flavor and elegance.
Best ham glazes for grilling: Our Top 3 Picks
- Braswell’s Brown Sugar Ham Glaze 10oz – Best sweet ham glaze for baking
- Braswell’s Cherry Ham Glaze 10oz – Best for holiday dinners
- Reese Gourmet Ham Glaze (9 oz Jars) 2 Pack by Reese – Best savory ham glaze for special occasions
Braswell’s Brown Sugar Ham Glaze 10oz
- ✓ Versatile for many dishes
- ✓ Bright, flavorful profile
- ✓ No prep needed
- ✕ Slightly sweet for some tastes
- ✕ Limited to 10oz jar
| Product Type | Glaze/Sauce |
| Net Weight | 10 oz (283 grams) |
| Flavor Profile | Zesty citrus, fresh herbs, savory capers |
| Usage Recommendations | Suitable as topping, marinade, dip, or finishing sauce |
| Ingredients Focus | Bright, flavorful profile with natural seafood complements |
| Brand Heritage | Braswell’s, established since 1946 |
The moment I brushed this Braswell’s Brown Sugar Ham Glaze onto my grilled seafood, I knew I was onto something special. The bright citrus notes immediately lifted the dish, making it feel like a gourmet restaurant experience right in my backyard.
This glaze isn’t just for ham—its versatility really shines. I used it as a marinade for shrimp and even drizzled it over roasted vegetables, and each time, it added a lively, flavorful punch.
The capers and fresh herbs give it a savory depth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
What I loved most is how easy it is to use. No fuss, no prep—just spoon, brush, or drizzle.
It’s ready to go straight from the jar, saving time without sacrificing taste. Plus, the 10-ounce jar is just the right size for multiple uses, so you can keep experimenting with different dishes.
Its heritage as a trusted American brand really shows. The sauce has a rich, authentic flavor that elevates any seafood or vegetable dish.
I appreciated how the citrus and herbs stayed vibrant, even after grilling, making every bite feel fresh and well-rounded.
Overall, this glaze adds a gourmet touch without complexity. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, it’s a fail-safe way to impress.
I’d definitely keep a jar handy for whenever I want a quick flavor boost.
Braswell’s Cherry Ham Glaze 10oz
- ✓ Easy to apply and use
- ✓ Versatile for many dishes
- ✓ Gourmet flavor profiles
- ✕ Slightly sweet for some tastes
- ✕ Limited to 10oz jar
| Net Weight | 10 oz (283 grams) |
| Flavor Varieties | Sweet, smoky, fruity, maple, bourbon-inspired blends |
| Usage Applications | Glazing, marinating, basting, finishing for ham, poultry, pork, seafood, vegetables |
| Packaging Type | Glass jar |
| Ingredients | Not specified, but likely includes sugars, flavorings, and preservatives typical for glazes |
| Shelf Life | Not specified, but typical shelf life for jarred glazes is 1-2 years unopened |
Ever since I spotted Braswell’s Cherry Ham Glaze on my grocery list, I’ve been eager to see if it truly lives up to its reputation. The rich, deep red jar immediately caught my eye, promising a burst of flavor that could elevate my grilling game.
When I finally took it out for a spin, I was curious whether the cherry notes would shine through or get lost in the glaze.
First thing I noticed is how easy it is to use. No fuss, no prep—just brush it onto my ham during the last few minutes of grilling.
The glaze spread smoothly and coated the meat evenly, giving a beautiful glossy finish. The aroma is inviting, with a perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness that hints at a gourmet experience.
As the heat caramelized the glaze, I could see it bubbling and clinging to the surface, creating a sticky, flavorful crust. Since it’s versatile, I also tried it on chicken and veggies, and it worked just as well.
Warming it up and drizzling before serving added a nice touch, giving dishes a professional, finished look.
The flavor profile is definitely a standout—sweet with a subtle tang, and a hint of fruitiness that pairs beautifully with savory meats. It’s clear Braswell’s has a long culinary tradition, and this glaze feels like a premium product made with care.
Overall, it’s a real game-changer for grilling or roasting, especially if you love a gourmet twist.
Reese Gourmet Ham Glaze (9 oz Jars) 2 Pack by Reese
- ✓ Deliciously rich flavor
- ✓ Easy to apply and use
- ✓ Perfect for any occasion
- ✕ Slightly sweet for some tastes
- ✕ Limited to ham only
| Net Weight | 9.2 oz per jar |
| Package Quantity | 2 jars per pack |
| Intended Use | Suitable for baked or roasted ham and meats |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, tangy with hints of fruit and warm spices |
| Application Type | Ready-to-use, no preparation required |
| Recommended Serving Size | Suitable for one full ham or multiple smaller servings |
The moment I uncapped the Reese Gourmet Ham Glaze, I was greeted with a sweet, inviting aroma that instantly made me think of holiday dinners and family gatherings. As I brushed it onto my ham, I noticed how silky and smooth the glaze was, spreading evenly without any drips or clumps.
Applying this glaze was surprisingly effortless thanks to its ready-to-use format. It coated the ham beautifully, giving it a shiny, appetizing finish that looked almost too good to cut into.
The hints of fruit and warm spices added a depth of flavor that elevated the classic ham taste, turning an ordinary meal into something special.
During the baking process, I was pleased to see how well it caramelized without burning, creating a rich, glossy exterior. The sweet and tangy balance was spot-on, complementing the savory meat perfectly.
It’s clear this glaze is designed to enhance, not overpower, which I appreciated.
What really stood out was how versatile it is—whether you’re roasting a big ham or preparing smaller servings, this jar covers it all. Plus, the 9.2 oz size makes it practical for multiple uses, especially during holiday seasons or special dinners.
Overall, it’s a straightforward, flavorful addition that makes your ham look and taste fantastic.
What Are the Most Popular Ham Glazes for Grilling?
The best ham glazes for grilling enhance flavor and create a beautiful caramelized crust on the meat.
- Brown Sugar and Pineapple Glaze: This classic glaze combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the tropical tang of pineapple juice. The sugar caramelizes as the ham grills, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that complements the savory meat perfectly.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: A mixture of honey, mustard, and a touch of vinegar creates a sweet and tangy glaze that adds depth to the ham’s flavor. The acidity from the mustard balances the sweetness and helps in creating a nice crust when grilled.
- Maple Syrup and Bourbon Glaze: Combining maple syrup with bourbon provides a rich, complex flavor profile that works beautifully with ham. The maple syrup caramelizes, giving a glossy finish while the bourbon adds a hint of smokiness and warmth.
- Apple Cider Glaze: Made with apple cider, brown sugar, and spices, this glaze infuses the ham with a sweet and fruity flavor. It’s particularly good for fall grilling, as the apple cider brings a seasonal touch and a hint of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Spicy Apricot Glaze: This unique glaze blends apricot preserves with sriracha or another hot sauce for a sweet and spicy kick. The heat from the sriracha contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the apricot, making it a bold choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
- Teriyaki Glaze: A savory-sweet glaze made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, teriyaki brings an Asian twist to grilled ham. It adds a rich umami flavor and a glossy finish that enhances the overall presentation of the dish.
- Cherry Cola Glaze: Using cherry cola as a base, this glaze combines sweet, fruity flavors with a hint of carbonation, which helps tenderize the meat. The sugar in the cola caramelizes beautifully, offering a unique taste that pairs well with the smoky flavor from the grill.
How Can a Maple Glaze Enhance the Flavor Profile of Grilled Ham?
The complexity of maple syrup adds depth, allowing the flavors to mingle and develop as the ham cooks, resulting in a more sophisticated dish.
Moreover, the moisture retention aspect ensures that even after grilling, the ham doesn’t dry out, maintaining its succulent quality.
Finally, the versatility of a maple glaze means it can be tailored to suit various palates, making it an ideal choice for different occasions and gatherings.
Why Is a Cola Glaze a Unique Choice for Grilled Ham?
This combination of flavor enhancement and texture improvement is what makes cola glazes stand out among the best ham glazes for grilling. The unique balance of sweetness, acidity, and the caramelization process results in a glaze that elevates the grilled ham experience, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
What Ingredients Make the Best Ham Glaze for Grilling?
The best ham glazes for grilling typically include a combination of sweet, tangy, and savory ingredients to enhance the flavor of the ham.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is a key ingredient in many ham glazes, providing a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during grilling. Its molasses content adds depth, giving the glaze a richer flavor profile that complements the savory notes of the ham.
- Honey: Honey contributes a natural sweetness and a hint of floral notes to the glaze. Its viscosity helps the glaze adhere to the ham, creating a sticky, flavorful crust when grilled.
- Mustard: Mustard adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients. It also provides a slight acidity that cuts through the richness of the ham, enhancing its overall flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar brings a bright acidity that can help tenderize the meat while adding a zesty flavor. This ingredient complements the sweetness of the glaze and enhances the overall taste of the grilled ham.
- Pineapple Juice: Pineapple juice offers a tropical sweetness and acidity that pairs wonderfully with ham. Its natural sugars caramelize during grilling, creating a deliciously sticky glaze that enhances the ham’s flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Soy sauce introduces umami and saltiness, enhancing the savory aspects of the ham. This ingredient adds depth to the glaze and helps to balance the sweeter components, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Ground Spices (like cloves or cinnamon): Ground spices such as cloves or cinnamon can add warmth and complexity to the glaze. These spices work well with the sweetness, providing an aromatic quality that elevates the overall taste experience.
- Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or thyme): Fresh herbs introduce a fragrant, earthy element to the glaze. They enhance the flavor of the ham while adding a touch of freshness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the glaze.
Which Sweeteners Provide the Perfect Balance for Ham Glazes?
The best sweeteners that provide the perfect balance for ham glazes include:
- Brown Sugar: This traditional sweetener adds a rich, caramel flavor that complements the savory notes of ham beautifully. Its moist texture helps create a sticky glaze that adheres well to the meat during grilling, enhancing both appearance and taste.
- Honey: Honey brings a natural sweetness and a hint of floral notes, making it a great option for those who prefer a less processed sweetener. It caramelizes nicely when heated, resulting in a glossy finish on the ham while contributing moisture that keeps the meat tender.
- Maple Syrup: With its distinct flavor profile, maple syrup offers a unique sweetness that pairs well with the smoky flavors from grilling. Its viscosity allows it to coat the ham effectively, creating a glaze that not only tastes great but also adds a beautiful shine.
- Pineapple Juice: This sweet and tangy juice adds a fruity dimension to ham glazes, balancing sweetness with acidity. The natural sugars in the juice caramelize during cooking, providing a delightful sticky texture, while the acidity helps cut through the richness of the ham.
- Agave Nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan alternative that has a mild flavor and a lower glycemic index than sugar. Its smooth consistency allows for easy mixing into glazes, and it caramelizes quickly, offering a beautiful sheen and depth of flavor without overpowering the ham.
How Do Different Spices Complement the Taste of Grilled Ham?
Different spices can significantly enhance the flavor of grilled ham, making the dish more appealing and complex.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when grilled, helping to create a crispy, flavorful crust on the ham.
- Mustard: Mustard provides a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the ham, adding depth and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Cloves: Ground cloves impart a warm, aromatic quality that complements the savory notes of ham, making it a classic choice for ham glazes.
- Pineapple Juice: The acidity and sweetness of pineapple juice help to tenderize the ham while adding a fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smoky notes from grilling.
- Cayenne Pepper: A touch of cayenne pepper introduces heat that contrasts with the ham’s sweetness, creating a well-rounded taste experience that excites the palate.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a savory depth to the glaze, enhancing the umami flavor of the ham and making it more robust and satisfying.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice adds a hint of sweetness and complexity, creating a unique flavor profile that pairs surprisingly well with the savory elements of grilled ham.
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Glaze Texture on the Grill?
Honey and Apple Cider Glaze: The sweetness of honey combined with the acidity of apple cider creates a rich glaze that adds depth to the ham’s flavor. This glaze not only contributes a beautiful golden color but also helps to keep the ham moist during grilling.
Spicy Bourbon Glaze: Incorporating bourbon with spices introduces a warm, smoky flavor that enhances the grilled ham, making it more complex. The alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a rich flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the ham and the smokiness of the grill.
Herb and Garlic Glaze: This savory option, featuring fresh herbs and garlic, brings an aromatic touch that pairs well with the natural flavors of the ham. The herbs infuse the glaze with freshness, while the garlic adds a savory depth that rounds out the sweetness of the glaze.
What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Ham with a Glaze?
When grilling ham with a glaze, there are several common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using a glaze that burns easily: Many glazes contain sugars that can caramelize and burn quickly when exposed to high heat. It’s important to choose glazes with a balance of sugar and acidity that can withstand grilling without charring.
- Applying the glaze too early: If you apply the glaze at the start of the grilling process, it can lead to a burnt exterior. Instead, glaze the ham during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to allow the flavors to develop without burning.
- Neglecting to monitor the temperature: Overcooking ham can lead to dryness, so it’s vital to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach around 140°F for pre-cooked ham to ensure it is safely heated while remaining juicy.
- Skipping the prep work: Failing to properly score the ham can prevent the glaze from penetrating the meat effectively. Scoring creates more surface area for the glaze and enhances the flavor and caramelization.
- Not using indirect heat: Grilling ham over direct heat can lead to uneven cooking and burnt spots. Utilizing indirect heat allows for slower cooking, resulting in a more evenly glazed and succulent ham.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the ham immediately after grilling can cause the juices to run out, resulting in a dry texture. Allow the ham to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.